Victims of sexual harassment in the workplace are protected

Sexual harassment is a serious issue in the workplace that victims should not have to tolerate. There are two broad categories of sexual harassment that victims should be familiar with and victims should always understand their legal rights and protections against sexual harassment.

Unfortunately, sexual harassment still takes place in the workplace and can impact the victim’s job performance, comfort level, safety and can cause them emotional and other types of harm. Sexual harassment generally falls into two categories including quid pro quo sexual harassment or hostile work environment sexual harassment. In circumstances of quid pro quo sexual harassment, sexual demands are made in exchange for favorable treatment at work or to prevent derogatory treatment. In circumstances of hostile work environment, the sexual behavior is so persistent as to create a hostile work environment for the victim.

There are different types of specific sexual harassment victims may experience including verbal harassment which can include alleged jokes and other activities; physical harassment which can include unwanted touching and other physical contact; and visual harassment which may include lewd gestures or other print or electronic material that is sexual in nature. It is important for victims to understand that resources are available to help them when they are experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace.

Workers in California have the right to feel safe in their workplaces but when they do not, it is important for them to be familiar with legal protections that may help them pursue damages for the harm they have suffered. The more victims know about how they are legally protected, the better off they are in circumstances of sexual harassment.